Smart Node v1.​15.​1 & v1.​15.​2 Updates Released

**Rocket Pool node operators have less than 48 hours** to prepare for Ethereum's Fusaka hard fork. **Critical upgrade required:** - Smart Node updated to v1.18.6 - All operators must upgrade before mainnet fork - Review details on [GitHub](https://github.com/rocket-pool/smart) before installing This follows the protocol's pattern of mandatory pre-fork updates, similar to the Pectra preparation earlier this year. Node operators who fail to upgrade risk compatibility issues when the hard fork activates.

Rocket Pool node operators can vote on three governance proposals: **RPIP-74**: Temporarily close minipool queue six weeks before Saturn 1 launch to redirect resources toward megapools **RPIP-75**: Adjust express ticket allocation by removing unconditionally provisioned tickets to speed up the express queue **RPIP-76**: Reduce Grants and Bounties Management Committee from nine to seven members All proposals are live on [Rocket Pool's governance platform](https://vote.rocketpool.net) with detailed specifications available in their respective RPIPs.

**Rocket Pool has officially arrived in Buenos Aires** for a series of major blockchain events. The decentralized Ethereum staking protocol's team members, DAO contributors, and partners are attending multiple high-profile gatherings: - **Staking Summit** - flagship staking event - **ethStaker Staking Gathering** - **EFDevcon** - Ethereum Foundation's developer conference - Various side events throughout the city This represents a significant presence for Rocket Pool at one of the staking industry's most important event clusters. The Buenos Aires blockchain week brings together key stakeholders from across the Ethereum staking ecosystem. *Connect with the Rocket Pool community during these events to discuss decentralized staking opportunities.*

**Rocket Pool announces partnership with RockSolid** to launch the first official $rETH liquid vault, integrated directly into the Rocket Pool app. The vault provides $rETH holders with: - Seamless access to DeFi strategies - New earning opportunities - Enhanced reward maximization **AMA scheduled** with RockSolid founders to discuss liquid vault infrastructure and how holders can optimize their rewards. **Join the discussion** in Rocket Pool Discord at 11:30pm UTC / 7:30pm ET. [Discord Link](discord.gg/rocketpool)

The Smart Node protocol has released version 1.16.0, bringing important updates for node operators. Key updates include: - Multiple client updates - New features - Recommended upgrade for all node operators Node operators should review the complete changelog at [GitHub Release Notes](https://github.com/rocket-pool/smartnode/releases/tag/v1.16.0) before proceeding with the upgrade. Additional support and discussions are available on the Discord channel.